I am proud of who I have fought to become. As a child without a dad, my mother had to play the role of both parents, balancing immense responsibilities as an immigrant in a new country. Her strength and persistence inspire me every day. Life was never easy, but no matter what, we always had what we needed. Growing up, I didn’t think I needed my dad. Since he was never around, I didn’t feel his absence in my early years. My family consisted of my mother and uncle, who took care of me the best they could. But as I got older, I began thinking about him constantly, which was confusing. How could I miss someone I had never met? I knew almost nothing about him: not his name, age, or personality. All I knew was that he was Mexican and not a part of my life. This absence shaped my childhood into one of solitude and late nights with babysitters or my uncle, as my mother worked long hours to keep food on the table. Sometimes, I wondered if things would have been different had my dad been around. Would I have had a more stable life? A stronger sense of security? Different opportunities? Would there have been space to believe in my dreams of going to college? These questions were too painful to dwell on when I was younger. Yet, reflecting on them now, I realize they shaped my drive and sense of responsibility. I once thought not having a dad would limit me, but instead, it made me strong. I grew up quickly, becoming responsible early on. I learned to care for myself and support my family, prioritizing my future. I realized I didn’t need a father to succeed, but I needed those around me to believe in my potential. Unfortunately, this wasn’t always the case. Being a first-generation child of a single mom exposed me to a world of assumptions and prejudices. Some educators and peers doubted my abilities, assuming I wouldn’t achieve much. I was belittled and blocked from opportunities by adults who underestimated me. At times, their judgments affected my self-esteem, causing me to make mistakes and temporarily withdraw from school. However, I turned things around. I improved my attendance and grades, prioritized my schoolwork, and managed a job I was always on time for. I also took care of my home and my dog, Brown. Despite my heavy responsibilities, my determination never wavered, and I proved my doubters wrong. Stepping into adulthood so early wasn’t easy, but I am grateful for the discipline, persistence, and strength I developed. These skills are preparing me to become a successful ultrasound technician. Though my family isn’t supportive of my college aspirations, and I have no one to guide me, I am ready to forge my path. It’s daunting, but I’ve faced worse. The barriers I’ve overcome give me confidence in my ability to navigate future challenges. I know how to advocate for myself, fight against prejudices, and support those around me while pursuing my dreams. To achieve these goals, I need help. My job alone isn’t enough to cover the costs of school, especially with my responsibilities at home. But I know I am a worthy investment. I am ready to do whatever it takes to build the future I’ve dreamed of and become the first in my family to go to college. My journey so far has been one of perseverance and self-reliance, and I am prepared to continue this fight.

I am proud of who I have fought to become. As a child without a dad, my mother had to play the role of both parents, balancing immense responsibilities as an immigrant in a new country. Her strength and persistence inspire me every day. Life was never easy, but no matter what, we always had what we needed. Growing up, I didn’t think I needed my dad. Since he was never around, I didn’t feel his absence in my early years. My family consisted of my mother and uncle, who took care of me the best they could. But as I got older, I began thinking about him constantly, which was confusing. How could I miss someone I had never met? I knew almost nothing about him: not his name, age, or personality. All I knew was that he was Mexican and not a part of my life. This absence shaped my childhood into one of solitude and late nights with babysitters or my uncle, as my mother worked long hours to keep food on the table. Sometimes, I wondered if things would have been different had my dad been around. Would I have had a more stable life? A stronger sense of security? Different opportunities? Would there have been space to believe in my dreams of going to college? These questions were too painful to dwell on when I was younger. Yet, reflecting on them now, I realize they shaped my drive and sense of responsibility. I once thought not having a dad would limit me, but instead, it made me strong. I grew up quickly, becoming responsible early on. I learned to care for myself and support my family, prioritizing my future. I realized I didn’t need a father to succeed, but I needed those around me to believe in my potential. Unfortunately, this wasn’t always the case. Being a first-generation child of a single mom exposed me to a world of assumptions and prejudices. Some educators and peers doubted my abilities, assuming I wouldn’t achieve much. I was belittled and blocked from opportunities by adults who underestimated me. At times, their judgments affected my self-esteem, causing me to make mistakes and temporarily withdraw from school. However, I turned things around. I improved my attendance and grades, prioritized my schoolwork, and managed a job I was always on time for. I also took care of my home and my dog, Brown. Despite my heavy responsibilities, my determination never wavered, and I proved my doubters wrong. Stepping into adulthood so early wasn’t easy, but I am grateful for the discipline, persistence, and strength I developed. These skills are preparing me to become a successful ultrasound technician. Though my family isn’t supportive of my college aspirations, and I have no one to guide me, I am ready to forge my path. It’s daunting, but I’ve faced worse. The barriers I’ve overcome give me confidence in my ability to navigate future challenges. I know how to advocate for myself, fight against prejudices, and support those around me while pursuing my dreams. To achieve these goals, I need help. My job alone isn’t enough to cover the costs of school, especially with my responsibilities at home. But I know I am a worthy investment. I am ready to do whatever it takes to build the future I’ve dreamed of and become the first in my family to go to college. My journey so far has been one of perseverance and self-reliance, and I am prepared to continue this fight.

I am proud of who I have fought to become. As a child without a dad, my mother had to play the role of both parents, balancing immense responsibilities as an immigrant in a new country. Her strength and persistence inspire me every day. Life was never easy, but no matter what, we always had what we needed. Growing up, I didn’t think I needed my dad. Since he was never around, I didn’t feel his absence in my early years. My family consisted of my mother and uncle, who took care of me the best they could. But as I got older, I began thinking about him constantly, which was confusing. How could I miss someone I had never met? I knew almost nothing about him: not his name, age, or personality. All I knew was that he was Mexican and not a part of my life. This absence shaped my childhood into one of solitude and late nights with babysitters or my uncle, as my mother worked long hours to keep food on the table. Sometimes, I wondered if things would have been different had my dad been around. Would I have had a more stable life? A stronger sense of security? Different opportunities? Would there have been space to believe in my dreams of going to college? These questions were too painful to dwell on when I was younger. Yet, reflecting on them now, I realize they shaped my drive and sense of responsibility. I once thought not having a dad would limit me, but instead, it made me strong. I grew up quickly, becoming responsible early on. I learned to care for myself and support my family, prioritizing my future. I realized I didn’t need a father to succeed, but I needed those around me to believe in my potential. Unfortunately, this wasn’t always the case. Being a first-generation child of a single mom exposed me to a world of assumptions and prejudices. Some educators and peers doubted my abilities, assuming I wouldn’t achieve much. I was belittled and blocked from opportunities by adults who underestimated me. At times, their judgments affected my self-esteem, causing me to make mistakes and temporarily withdraw from school. However, I turned things around. I improved my attendance and grades, prioritized my schoolwork, and managed a job I was always on time for. I also took care of my home and my dog, Brown. Despite my heavy responsibilities, my determination never wavered, and I proved my doubters wrong. Stepping into adulthood so early wasn’t easy, but I am grateful for the discipline, persistence, and strength I developed. These skills are preparing me to become a successful ultrasound technician. Though my family isn’t supportive of my college aspirations, and I have no one to guide me, I am ready to forge my path. It’s daunting, but I’ve faced worse. The barriers I’ve overcome give me confidence in my ability to navigate future challenges. I know how to advocate for myself, fight against prejudices, and support those around me while pursuing my dreams. To achieve these goals, I need help. My job alone isn’t enough to cover the costs of school, especially with my responsibilities at home. But I know I am a worthy investment. I am ready to do whatever it takes to build the future I’ve dreamed of and become the first in my family to go to college. My journey so far has been one of perseverance and self-reliance, and I am prepared to continue this fight.

It was a deeply challenging period, but the unwavering belief that there was a greater purpose and a source of strength beyond our understanding kept us hopeful. This experience also opened my eyes to the profound impact healthcare professionals can have on patients and their families, not just through medical expertise but also through genuine care and empathy. Seeing the compassion and competence of the medical staff inspired me to pursue a career where I could provide similar support. My faith continues to influence my desire to become an ultrasound technician. This profession involves more than just technical skills; it requires a compassionate heart and a steady sense of responsibility. As an ultrasound technician, I will have the privilege of interacting with patients who may be feeling anxious or scared. Whether it’s an expectant mother eager to see her baby for the first time or a patient worried about a possible health issue, I understand that every interaction matters. My faith drives me to treat each person with the utmost respect, empathy, and understanding. It reminds me that every individual is deserving of kindness and that providing care goes beyond the procedures and extends to the human connection I can offer. Integrity is another core value my faith has instilled in me, and it’s a value that is essential in the field of healthcare. As an ultrasound technician, I will be responsible for accurately capturing and interpreting images that are critical for diagnosing patients. This requires a commitment to excellence and honesty in every aspect of the job. My faith guides me to approach each task with diligence and a sense of duty, knowing that my work can significantly impact a person’s health and well-being. The importance of ethical decision-making is emphasized in my faith, and I am determined to uphold these standards throughout my career. Faith also provides me with a source of continuous motivation. The healthcare field is demanding, and the journey to becoming an ultrasound technician will require perseverance, dedication, and a willingness to keep learning. My faith reminds me that I am never alone and that each obstacle is an opportunity for growth. It encourages me to face challenges with resilience and to approach every situation with a heart ready to serve. Even on the most difficult days, I know that my purpose is to make a positive difference in the lives of others, and that knowledge keeps me motivated. Receiving this scholarship would be a tremendous blessing, allowing me to focus on my education and training without the added stress of financial burdens. It represents not only financial support but also an affirmation of my commitment to serving others with integrity and compassion. With this support, I will be able to dedicate myself fully to becoming a highly skilled ultrasound technician who brings both technical expertise and heartfelt care to every patient encounter. I am eager to embrace this journey and to use my skills to reflect the values my faith has instilled in me, offering comfort, hope, and exceptional service to those in need. Thank you for considering my application. This opportunity means more than words can express, and I am honored to share how my faith has guided me and will continue to guide me as I pursue my dreams in the healthcare field.

Somehow, being a first-generation child of a single mom has led multiple educators, peers, and role models in my life to assume that I would not amount to much. I have been talked down to and belittled. Worse, I have been blocked out of opportunities by adults who decided privately that I was not likely to be successful. These are all prejudices I could have easily absorbed and let overwhelm me. There was even a time when my self-confidence was low as a result.  I made many mistakes, and starting withdrawing from school. I turned this around in a short amount time, however, greatly improving both my attendance and grades. I prioritized school-work all while maintaining a job that I was always on time for, helping clean and maintain my home, and caretake for my dog, Brown. Even with a mountain of responsibility, my hard work and determination has led me to achieve my goals. I'm proud of myself for proving to everybody they were wrong in their assumptions and prejudices about me. 
 Its true that, I grew up too fast, faster than many of my peers. I had to step into adulthood at an early age to help my mom and our daily reality. I'm proud to have stepped in, as it has taught me discipline, persistence and strength. All skills that are preparing me to be a thriving adult and ultimately follow my career as an ultrasound tech. I know it will be difficult path. My family is not supportive of me going to college. As I will be the first person in my family to do so, I have no-one to pave the way for me or give me advice. Honestly, that is scary, but I am prepared to overcome any challenges that come my way. All the barriers that I have spent a lifetime overcoming give me the confidence that I need to move forward. I know I can advocate for myself and stand-up to prejudices against me. I know I can help those around me while achieving my goals, as I have practiced with my mom.  I know I am independent and mature, thanks to my childhood. also know, I am still learning new skills as I continue to grow.  I hope that you can see that I am a worthy investment and know that I am ready to do anything to get the career.

I'm proud of myself for who I have fought to become. As a child without a dad, my mother always had to be both parents. She did this as an immigrant to a new country with a strength and persistence I can only admire. It wasn't easy for her or me, but no matter what, we always had what we needed.   As I grew older, something changed, and I found myself constantly thinking about my father. This was especially confusing as I was thinking about someone I had never met and knew almost nothing about. I didn't know his name, how old he was, what he was like. The only things I knew about him was that he was Mexican. I knew that he was why my childhood consisted of a lot of time alone. My mother spent all day and evening working long hours to make sure that food stayed on the table. 
 It made me wonder. What if my dad was in my life? Would I still be poor? Would I have a good roof over my head? Would I be looking after my mom? Would I have different opportunities? Would my family believe in my dreams of going to college? I never allowed myself to think about this too deeply. I had to learn that I alone was the key to my success. It was not enough for me to believe this, however, I needed the people around me to believe it too.     Somehow, being a first-generation child of a single mom has led multiple educators, peers, and role models in my life to assume that I would not amount to much. I have been talked down to and belittled. Worse, I have been blocked out of opportunities by adults who decided privately that I would not be successful. These are all prejudices I could have easily absorbed and let overwhelm me. There was even a time when my self-confidence was low as a result. This pushed me to prioritize school-work - all while maintaining a job and my home. Even with a mountain of responsibilities, my hard work and determination has led me to achieve my goals. I'm proud of myself for proving to everybody they were wrong in their assumptions about me. 
 I have spent a lifetime fighting barriers that have now prepared me to be a thriving adult and succeed in a career as an ultrasound technician. My family is not supportive of me going to college. As I will be the first person in my family to do so, I have no one to pave the way for me or give me advice.  I know I can advocate for myself and stand up to prejudices against me. I know I can help those around me while achieving my goals. I know I am independent and mature. I also know, I am still learning new skills as I continue to grow. I hope that you can see that I am a worthy investment.

I'm proud of myself for who I have fought to become. As a child without a dad, my mother always had to be both parents. She did this as an immigrant to a new country with a strength and persistence I can only admire. It wasn't easy for her or me, but no matter what, we always had what we needed.   As I grew older, something changed, and I found myself constantly thinking about my father. This was especially confusing as I was thinking about someone I had never met and knew almost nothing about. I didn't know his name, how old he was, what he was like. The only things I knew about him was that he was Mexican. I knew that he was why my childhood consisted of a lot of time alone. My mother spent all day and evening working long hours to make sure that food stayed on the table. 
 It made me wonder. What if my dad was in my life? Would I still be poor? Would I have a good roof over my head? Would I be looking after my mom? Would I have different opportunities? Would my family believe in my dreams of going to college? I never allowed myself to think about this too deeply. I had to learn that I alone was the key to my success. It was not enough for me to believe this, however, I needed the people around me to believe it too.     Somehow, being a first-generation child of a single mom has led multiple educators, peers, and role models in my life to assume that I would not amount to much. I have been talked down to and belittled. Worse, I have been blocked out of opportunities by adults who decided privately that I would not be successful. These are all prejudices I could have easily absorbed and let overwhelm me. There was even a time when my self-confidence was low as a result. This pushed me to prioritize school-work - all while maintaining a job and my home. Even with a mountain of responsibilities, my hard work and determination has led me to achieve my goals. I'm proud of myself for proving to everybody they were wrong in their assumptions about me. 
 I have spent a lifetime fighting barriers that have now prepared me to be a thriving adult and succeed in a career as an ultrasound technician. My family is not supportive of me going to college. As I will be the first person in my family to do so, I have no one to pave the way for me or give me advice.  I know I can advocate for myself and stand up to prejudices against me. I know I can help those around me while achieving my goals. I know I am independent and mature. I also know, I am still learning new skills as I continue to grow. I hope that you can see that I am a worthy investment.

I'm proud of myself for who I have fought to become. As a child without a dad, my mother always had to be both parents. She did this as an immigrant to a new country with a strength and persistence I can only admire. It wasn't easy for her or me, but no matter what, we always had what we needed.   As I grew older, something changed, and I found myself constantly thinking about my father. This was especially confusing as I was thinking about someone I had never met and knew almost nothing about. I didn't know his name, how old he was, what he was like. The only things I knew about him was that he was Mexican. I knew that he was why my childhood consisted of a lot of time alone. My mother spent all day and evening working long hours to make sure that food stayed on the table. 
 It made me wonder. What if my dad was in my life? Would I still be poor? Would I have a good roof over my head? Would I be looking after my mom? Would I have different opportunities? Would my family believe in my dreams of going to college? I never allowed myself to think about this too deeply. I had to learn that I alone was the key to my success. It was not enough for me to believe this, however, I needed the people around me to believe it too.     Somehow, being a first-generation child of a single mom has led multiple educators, peers, and role models in my life to assume that I would not amount to much. I have been talked down to and belittled. Worse, I have been blocked out of opportunities by adults who decided privately that I would not be successful. These are all prejudices I could have easily absorbed and let overwhelm me. There was even a time when my self-confidence was low as a result. This pushed me to prioritize school-work - all while maintaining a job and my home. Even with a mountain of responsibilities, my hard work and determination has led me to achieve my goals. I'm proud of myself for proving to everybody they were wrong in their assumptions about me. 
 I have spent a lifetime fighting barriers that have now prepared me to be a thriving adult and succeed in a career as an ultrasound technician. My family is not supportive of me going to college. As I will be the first person in my family to do so, I have no one to pave the way for me or give me advice.  I know I can advocate for myself and stand up to prejudices against me. I know I can help those around me while achieving my goals. I know I am independent and mature. I also know, I am still learning new skills as I continue to grow. I hope that you can see that I am a worthy investment.

I'm proud of myself for who I have fought to become. As a child without a dad, my mother always had to be both parents. She did this as an immigrant to a new country with a strength and persistence I can only admire. It wasn't easy for her or me, but no matter what, we always had what we needed.   As I grew older, something changed, and I found myself constantly thinking about my father. This was especially confusing as I was thinking about someone I had never met and knew almost nothing about. I didn't know his name, how old he was, what he was like. The only things I knew about him was that he was Mexican. I knew that he was why my childhood consisted of a lot of time alone. My mother spent all day and evening working long hours to make sure that food stayed on the table. 
 It made me wonder. What if my dad was in my life? Would I still be poor? Would I have a good roof over my head? Would I be looking after my mom? Would I have different opportunities? Would my family believe in my dreams of going to college? I never allowed myself to think about this too deeply. I had to learn that I alone was the key to my success. It was not enough for me to believe this, however, I needed the people around me to believe it too.     Somehow, being a first-generation child of a single mom has led multiple educators, peers, and role models in my life to assume that I would not amount to much. I have been talked down to and belittled. Worse, I have been blocked out of opportunities by adults who decided privately that I would not be successful. These are all prejudices I could have easily absorbed and let overwhelm me. There was even a time when my self-confidence was low as a result. This pushed me to prioritize school-work - all while maintaining a job and my home. Even with a mountain of responsibilities, my hard work and determination has led me to achieve my goals. I'm proud of myself for proving to everybody they were wrong in their assumptions about me. 
 I have spent a lifetime fighting barriers that have now prepared me to be a thriving adult and succeed in a career as an ultrasound technician. My family is not supportive of me going to college. As I will be the first person in my family to do so, I have no one to pave the way for me or give me advice.  I know I can advocate for myself and stand up to prejudices against me. I know I can help those around me while achieving my goals. I know I am independent and mature. I also know, I am still learning new skills as I continue to grow. I hope that you can see that I am a worthy investment.

I'm proud of myself for who I have fought to become. As a child without a dad, my mother always had to be both parents. She did this as an immigrant to a new country with a strength and persistence I can only admire. It wasn't easy for her or me, but no matter what, we always had what we needed.   As I grew older, something changed, and I found myself constantly thinking about my father. This was especially confusing as I was thinking about someone I had never met and knew almost nothing about. I didn't know his name, how old he was, what he was like. The only things I knew about him was that he was Mexican. I knew that he was why my childhood consisted of a lot of time alone. My mother spent all day and evening working long hours to make sure that food stayed on the table. 
 It made me wonder. What if my dad was in my life? Would I still be poor? Would I have a good roof over my head? Would I be looking after my mom? Would I have different opportunities? Would my family believe in my dreams of going to college? I never allowed myself to think about this too deeply. I had to learn that I alone was the key to my success. It was not enough for me to believe this, however, I needed the people around me to believe it too.     Somehow, being a first-generation child of a single mom has led multiple educators, peers, and role models in my life to assume that I would not amount to much. I have been talked down to and belittled. Worse, I have been blocked out of opportunities by adults who decided privately that I would not be successful. These are all prejudices I could have easily absorbed and let overwhelm me. There was even a time when my self-confidence was low as a result. This pushed me to prioritize school-work - all while maintaining a job and my home. Even with a mountain of responsibilities, my hard work and determination has led me to achieve my goals. I'm proud of myself for proving to everybody they were wrong in their assumptions about me. 
 I have spent a lifetime fighting barriers that have now prepared me to be a thriving adult and succeed in a career as an ultrasound technician. My family is not supportive of me going to college. As I will be the first person in my family to do so, I have no one to pave the way for me or give me advice.  I know I can advocate for myself and stand up to prejudices against me. I know I can help those around me while achieving my goals. I know I am independent and mature. I also know, I am still learning new skills as I continue to grow. I hope that you can see that I am a worthy investment.

I'm proud of myself for who I have fought to become. As a child without a dad, my mother always had to be both parents. She did this as an immigrant to a new country with a strength and persistence I can only admire. It wasn't easy for her or me, but no matter what, we always had what we needed.   As I grew older, something changed, and I found myself constantly thinking about my father. This was especially confusing as I was thinking about someone I had never met and knew almost nothing about. I didn't know his name, how old he was, what he was like. The only things I knew about him was that he was Mexican. I knew that he was why my childhood consisted of a lot of time alone. My mother spent all day and evening working long hours to make sure that food stayed on the table. 
 It made me wonder. What if my dad was in my life? Would I still be poor? Would I have a good roof over my head? Would I be looking after my mom? Would I have different opportunities? Would my family believe in my dreams of going to college? and I never allowed myself to think about this too deeply. I had to learn that I alone was the key to my success. It was not enough for me to believe this, however, I needed the people around me to believe it too.     Somehow, being a first-generation child of a single mom has led multiple educators, peers, and role models in my life to assume that I would not amount to much. I have been talked down to and belittled. Worse, I have been blocked out of opportunities by adults who decided privately that I would not be successful. These are all prejudices I could have easily absorbed and let overwhelm me. There was even a time when my self-confidence was low as a result. This pushed me to prioritize school-work - all while maintaining a job and my home. Even with a mountain of responsibilities, my hard work and determination has led me to achieve my goals. I'm proud of myself for proving to everybody they were wrong in their assumptions about me. 
 I have spent a lifetime fighting barriers that have now prepared me to be a thriving adult and succeed in a career as an ultrasound technician. My family is not supportive of me going to college. As I will be the first person in my family to do so, I have no one to pave the way for me or give me advice.  I know I can advocate for myself and stand up to prejudices against me. I know I can help those around me while achieving my goals. I know I am independent and mature. I also know, I am still learning new skills as I continue to grow. I hope that you can see that I am a worthy investment.

I'm proud of myself for who I have fought to become. As a child without a dad, my mother always had to be both parents. She did this as an immigrant to a new country with a strength and persistence I can only admire. It wasn't easy for her or me, but no matter what, we always had what we needed.   As I grew older, something changed, and I found myself constantly thinking about my father. This was especially confusing as I was thinking about someone I had never met and knew almost nothing about. I didn't know his name, how old he was, what he was like. The only things I knew about him was that he was Mexican. I knew that he was why my childhood consisted of a lot of time alone. My mother spent all day and evening working long hours to make sure that food stayed on the table. 
 It made me wonder. What if my dad was in my life? Would I still be poor? Would I have a good roof over my head? Would I be looking after my mom? Would I have different opportunities? Would my family believe in my dreams of going to college? I never allowed myself to think about this too deeply. I had to learn that I alone was the key to my success. It was not enough for me to believe this, however, I needed the people around me to believe it too.     Somehow, being a first-generation child of a single mom has led multiple educators, peers, and role models in my life to assume that I would not amount to much. I have been talked down to and belittled. Worse, I have been blocked out of opportunities by adults who decided privately that I would not be successful. These are all prejudices I could have easily absorbed and let overwhelm me. There was even a time when my self-confidence was low as a result. This pushed me to prioritize school-work - all while maintaining a job and my home. Even with a mountain of responsibilities, my hard work and determination has led me to achieve my goals. I'm proud of myself for proving to everybody they were wrong in their assumptions about me. 
 I have spent a lifetime fighting barriers that have now prepared me to be a thriving adult and succeed in a career as an ultrasound technician. My family is not supportive of me going to college. As I will be the first person in my family to do so, I have no one to pave the way for me or give me advice.  I know I can advocate for myself and stand up to prejudices against me. I know I can help those around me while achieving my goals. I know I am independent and mature. I also know, I am still learning new skills as I continue to grow. I hope that you can see that I am a worthy investment.

I'm proud of myself for who I have fought to become. As a child without a dad, my mother always had to be both parents. She did this as an immigrant to a new country with a strength and persistence I can only admire. It wasn't easy for her or me, but no matter what, we always had what we needed.   As I grew older, something changed, and I found myself constantly thinking about my father. This was especially confusing as I was thinking about someone I had never met and knew almost nothing about. I didn't know his name, how old he was, what he was like. The only things I knew about him was that he was Mexican. I knew that he was why my childhood consisted of a lot of time alone. My mother spent all day and evening working long hours to make sure that food stayed on the table. 
 It made me wonder. What if my dad was in my life? Would I still be poor? Would I have a good roof over my head? Would I be looking after my mom? Would I have different opportunities? Would my family believe in my dreams of going to college? I never allowed myself to think about this too deeply. I had to learn that I alone was the key to my success. It was not enough for me to believe this, however, I needed the people around me to believe it too.     Somehow, being a first-generation child of a single mom has led multiple educators, peers, and role models in my life to assume that I would not amount to much. I have been talked down to and belittled. Worse, I have been blocked out of opportunities by adults who decided privately that I would not be successful. These are all prejudices I could have easily absorbed and let overwhelm me. There was even a time when my self-confidence was low as a result. This pushed me to prioritize school-work - all while maintaining a job and my home. Even with a mountain of responsibilities, my hard work and determination has led me to achieve my goals. I'm proud of myself for proving to everybody they were wrong in their assumptions about me. 
 I have spent a lifetime fighting barriers that have now prepared me to be a thriving adult and succeed in a career as an ultrasound technician. My family is not supportive of me going to college. As I will be the first person in my family to do so, I have no one to pave the way for me or give me advice.  I know I can advocate for myself and stand up to prejudices against me. I know I can help those around me while achieving my goals. I know I am independent and mature. I also know, I am still learning new skills as I continue to grow. I hope that you can see that I am a worthy investment.

I'm proud of myself for who I have fought to become. As a child without a dad, my mother always had to be both parents. She did this as an immigrant to a new country with a strength and persistence I can only admire. It wasn't easy for her or me, but no matter what, we always had what we needed. As I grew older, something changed, and I found myself constantly thinking about my father. This was especially confusing as I was thinking about someone I had never met and knew almost nothing about. I didn't know his name, how old he was, what he was like. The only things I knew about him was that he was Mexican. I knew that he was why my childhood consisted of a lot of time alone. My mother spent all day and evening working long hours to make sure that food stayed on the table. It made me wonder. What if my dad was in my life? Would I still be poor? Would I have a good roof over my head? Would I be looking after my mom? Would I have different opportunities? Would my family believe in my dreams of going to college? I never allowed myself to think about this too deeply. I had to learn that I alone was the key to my success. It was not enough for me to believe this, however, I needed the people around me to believe it too. Somehow, being a first-generation child of a single mom has led multiple educators, peers, and role models in my life to assume that I would not amount to much. I have been talked down to and belittled. Worse, I have been blocked out of opportunities by adults who decided privately that I would not be successful. These are all prejudices I could have easily absorbed and let overwhelm me. There was even a time when my self-confidence was low as a result. This pushed me to prioritize school-work - all while maintaining a job and my home. Even with a mountain of responsibilities, my hard work and determination has led me to achieve my goals. I'm proud of myself for proving to everybody they were wrong in their assumptions about me. I have spent a lifetime fighting barriers that have now prepared me to be a thriving adult and succeed in a career as an ultrasound technician. My family is not supportive of me going to college. As I will be the first person in my family to do so, I have no one to pave the way for me or give me advice. I know I can advocate for myself and stand up to prejudices against me. I know I can help those around me while achieving my goals. I know I am independent and mature. I also know, I am still learning new skills as I continue to grow. I hope that you can see that I am a worthy investment.

I'm proud of myself for who I have fought to become. As a child without a dad, my mother always had to be both parents. She did this as an immigrant to a new country with a strength and persistence I can only admire. It wasn't easy for her or me, but no matter what, we always had what we needed. As I grew older, something changed, and I found myself constantly thinking about my father. This was especially confusing as I was thinking about someone I had never met and knew almost nothing about. I didn't know his name, how old he was, what he was like. The only things I knew about him was that he was Mexican. I knew that he was why my childhood consisted of a lot of time alone. My mother spent all day and evening working long hours to make sure that food stayed on the table. It made me wonder. What if my dad was in my life? Would I still be poor? Would I have a good roof over my head? Would I be looking after my mom? Would I have different opportunities? Would my family believe in my dreams of going to college? I never allowed myself to think about this too deeply. I had to learn that I alone was the key to my success. It was not enough for me to believe this, however, I needed the people around me to believe it too. Somehow, being a first-generation child of a single mom has led multiple educators, peers, and role models in my life to assume that I would not amount to much. I have been talked down to and belittled. Worse, I have been blocked out of opportunities by adults who decided privately that I would not be successful. These are all prejudices I could have easily absorbed and let overwhelm me. There was even a time when my self-confidence was low as a result. This pushed me to prioritize school-work - all while maintaining a job and my home. Even with a mountain of responsibilities, my hard work and determination has led me to achieve my goals. I'm proud of myself for proving to everybody they were wrong in their assumptions about me. I have spent a lifetime fighting barriers that have now prepared me to be a thriving adult and succeed in a career as an ultrasound technician. My family is not supportive of me going to college. As I will be the first person in my family to do so, I have no one to pave the way for me or give me advice. I know I can advocate for myself and stand up to prejudices against me. I know I can help those around me while achieving my goals. I know I am independent and mature. I also know, I am still learning new skills as I continue to grow. I hope that you can see that I am a worthy investment.

I'm proud of myself for who I have fought to become. As a child without a dad, my mother always had to be both parents. She did this as an immigrant to a new country with a strength and persistence I can only admire. It wasn't easy for her or me, but no matter what, we always had what we needed. As I grew older, something changed, and I found myself constantly thinking about my father. This was especially confusing as I was thinking about someone I had never met and knew almost nothing about. I didn't know his name, how old he was, what he was like. The only things I knew about him was that he was Mexican. I knew that he was why my childhood consisted of a lot of time alone. My mother spent all day and evening working long hours to make sure that food stayed on the table. It made me wonder. What if my dad was in my life? Would I still be poor? Would I have a good roof over my head? Would I be looking after my mom? Would I have different opportunities? Would my family believe in my dreams of going to college? I never allowed myself to think about this too deeply. I had to learn that I alone was the key to my success. It was not enough for me to believe this, however, I needed the people around me to believe it too. Somehow, being a first-generation child of a single mom has led multiple educators, peers, and role models in my life to assume that I would not amount to much. I have been talked down to and belittled. Worse, I have been blocked out of opportunities by adults who decided privately that I would not be successful. These are all prejudices I could have easily absorbed and let overwhelm me. There was even a time when my self-confidence was low as a result. This pushed me to prioritize school-work - all while maintaining a job and my home. Even with a mountain of responsibilities, my hard work and determination has led me to achieve my goals. I'm proud of myself for proving to everybody they were wrong in their assumptions about me. I have spent a lifetime fighting barriers that have now prepared me to be a thriving adult and succeed in a career as an ultrasound technician. My family is not supportive of me going to college. As I will be the first person in my family to do so, I have no one to pave the way for me or give me advice. I know I can advocate for myself and stand up to prejudices against me. I know I can help those around me while achieving my goals. I know I am independent and mature. I also know, I am still learning new skills as I continue to grow. I hope that you can see that I am a worthy investment.

I'm proud of myself for who I have fought to become. As a child without a dad, my mother always had to be both parents, a father and a mother. She did this as an immigrant to a new country with a strength and persistence I can only admire. It wasn't easy for her or me, but no matter what, we always had what we needed. While I was growing up, I never thought I needed my dad. Since he never was part of my childhood, I didn’t feel his absence when I was younger. I knew that I had some family, my family consisting of my mother and uncle, to take care of me. As I grew older, something changed, and I found myself constantly thinking about him. This was especially confusing as I was thinking about someone I had never met. Not only did I never meet him, I knew almost nothing about him. I didn't know his name, how old he was, what he was like. The only things I knew about him was that he was Mexican and that he was not a part of my life. I knew this was why my childhood consisted of a lot of time alone, or late nights with a babysitter, or late nights with my uncle ending with a midnight pickup from my mother. My mother spent all day and evening working long hours to make sure that food stayed on the table. This happened my whole childhood. It made me wonder. What if my dad was in my life? Would I have had a completely different childhood? Would I look poor? Would I still be poor? Would I have a good roof over my head? Would I always be at home with my mom? Would I have different opportunities? Would there be space for my family to believe in my dreams of going to college? I never allowed myself to think about this too deeply when I was younger. It's weird to think about it now. I thought that not having a dad would bring me down, but it didn't. As I grew older, it led to me becoming extremely responsible at a young age, and it made me a stronger woman. I learned to take care of myself, support my family, and the importance of focusing on my future. I learned that I don't need a dad to take care of me and ensure my success. It was not enough for me to believe this, however, I needed the people around me to believe it too. Somehow, being a first-generation child of a single mom has led multiple educators, peers, and role models in my life to assume that I would not amount to much. I have been talked down to and belittled. Worse, I have been blocked out of opportunities by adults who decided privately that I was not likely to be successful. These are all prejudices I could have easily absorbed and let overwhelm me. There was even a time when my self-confidence was low as a result. I made many mistakes, and starting withdrawing from school. I turned this around in a short amount time, however, greatly improving both my attendance and grades. I prioritized school-work all while maintaining a job that I was always on time for, helping clean and maintain my home, and caretake for my dog, Brown. Even with a mountain of responsibility, my hard work and determination has led me to achieve my goals. I'm proud of myself for proving to everybody they were wrong in their assumptions and prejudices about me. Its true that, I grew up too fast, faster than many of my peers. I had to step into adulthood at an early age to help my mom and our daily reality. I'm proud to have stepped in, as it has taught me discipline, persistence and strength. All skills that are preparing me to be a thriving adult and ultimately follow my career as an ultrasound tech or medical assistant. I want to help women go through challenging moments of their lives. I want to help bring joy to women during a time that can be overwhelming. I know it will be difficult path. My family is not supportive of me going to college. As I will be the first person in my family to do so, I have no-one to pave the way for me or give me advice. Honestly, that is scary, but I am prepared to overcome any challenges that come my way. All the barriers that I have spent a lifetime overcoming give me the confidence that I need to move forward. I know I can advocate for myself and stand-up to prejudices against me. I know I can help those around me while achieving my goals, as I have practiced with my mom. I know I am independent and mature, thanks to my childhood. I also know, I am still learning new skills as I continue to grow. I do need help to pursue my academic aspirations. I am unable to afford school with my job alone, especially with my responsibilities at home. I hope that you can see that I am a worthy investment and know that I am ready to do anything to get the career I want to achieve.

I'm proud of myself for who I have fought to become. As a child without a dad, my mother always had to be both parents. She did this as an immigrant to a new country with a strength and persistence I can only admire. It wasn't easy for her or me, but no matter what, we always had what we needed. As I grew older, something changed, and I found myself constantly thinking about my father. This was especially confusing as I was thinking about someone I had never met and knew almost nothing about. I didn't know his name, how old he was, what he was like. The only things I knew about him was that he was Mexican. I knew that he was why my childhood consisted of a lot of time alone. My mother spent all day and evening working long hours to make sure that food stayed on the table. It made me wonder. What if my dad was in my life? Would I still be poor? Would I have a good roof over my head? Would I be looking after my mom? Would I have different opportunities? Would my family believe in my dreams of going to college? I never allowed myself to think about this too deeply. I had to learn that I alone was the key to my success. It was not enough for me to believe this, however, I needed the people around me to believe it too. Somehow, being a first-generation child of a single mom has led multiple educators, peers, and role models in my life to assume that I would not amount to much. I have been talked down to and belittled. Worse, I have been blocked out of opportunities by adults who decided privately that I would not be successful. These are all prejudices I could have easily absorbed and let overwhelm me. There was even a time when my self-confidence was low as a result. This pushed me to prioritize school-work - all while maintaining a job and my home. Even with a mountain of responsibilities, my hard work and determination has led me to achieve my goals. I'm proud of myself for proving to everybody they were wrong in their assumptions about me. I have spent a lifetime fighting barriers that have now prepared me to be a thriving adult and succeed in a career as an ultrasound technician. My family is not supportive of me going to college. As I will be the first person in my family to do so, I have no one to pave the way for me or give me advice. I know I can advocate for myself and stand up to prejudices against me. I know I can help those around me while achieving my goals. I know I am independent and mature. I also know, I am still learning new skills as I continue to grow. This scholarship will be a huge pathway to afford my education. I hope that you can see that I am a worthy investment.